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Driver Of Church Van Killed, 17 Passengers Escape Serious Injuries

(INDIANAPOLIS) - The driver of a church van was killed but 17 passengers escaped serious injuries after a rollover crash at 46th and Emerson on the Indianapolis northeast side Sunday.

The 15-passenger van is from the Jesus House of Prayer Temple on 3450 N. Illinois Street. Several of the victims riding in the van were children. Police say the 51-year-old man driving the van was pronounced dead at the scene. None of those 17 suffered life-threatening injuries.

The IMPD Chaplain's office confirms the family of Edward Sadler, 51, was notified of his death. Sadler was the driver of the Ford van involved in the crash.

IMPD officers have arrested 26-year-old Brandon Collins. He is currently at the Marion County Jail preliminarily charged with Failure to Stop after Crash Causing Injury or Death and OVWI Causing Serious Injury or Death Both of these charges are B felonies.

Eleven van passengers sustained minor injuries requiring treatment at either Riley or Wishard Hospitals. A seven-year-old girl was transported in serious condition but upgraded to good condition overnight. The girl had a broken leg.

The van was returning home from an evening revival at another church on East 46th Street. Police say the van had the right of way and was struck by a car that ran a red light.

The driver of the other vehicle involved, Brandon Collins, initially left the scene, but IMPD located him a few blocks away.

Investigators believe alcohol played a part in this incident. The Fatal Alcohol Crash Team (FACT) is leading that part of the investigation.

According to IMPD spokesman, Lt. Chris Bailey, the van was crossing 46th from east to west with a green light when the silver/tan Honda came from the south and struck the van.

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